Healthy Emory focuses on goal setting for 2026

Healthy Emory is kicking off the new year with a bold vision: "One Emory: Choose Your Journey … and Own It."

The 2026 program invites every employee to take ownership of their well-being through SMART goals: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound objectives that turn intentions into action.

Behavior change doesn't happen overnight, but with clear, structured goals, it becomes achievable. Emory's health and well-being team is emphasizing the incorporation of daily, sustainable habits.

"We aim to empower employees to start strong and continue progress throughout the year," says well-being specialist Emma Trotter. "From physical activity and nutrition to stress management and social connection, SMART goals will be the foundation of every campaign in 2026."

Start SMART

Get started by identifying an area of well-being you would like to enhance this year - physical; mental and emotional; financial; social and community; or learning and career - and then create a corresponding goal. Examples include:

• Physical: Walk for 30 minutes during your lunch break, three times per week for four weeks.
• Mental and emotional: Meditate for 10 minutes every morning for two weeks.
• Financial: Use a budgeting app to track expenses and save $100 monthly for six months.
• Social and community: Schedule one coffee chat per week for six weeks.
• Learning and career: Complete one professional development course by the end of spring semester and apply at least one new skill at work.

Access goal-setting worksheets to get started and then track progress through Healthy Emory Connect.

Look toward what's new in 2026

Throughout 2026, Healthy Emory will offer campaigns that focus on different aspects of well-being to help you progress toward your goal.

• February-March: Fuel to Flourish (nutrition-focused resources, activities and challenges), open for registration now
• April-May: Move to Improve (physical activity takes center stage)
• July-September: Rest to Rise and Connect to Thrive (sleep, recovery and social connection)
• October-December: Reflect and Reset (stress management and gratitude during the holidays, and a time to look ahead and set intentions for the coming year)

Utilize Emory well-being resources

You don't have to do it alone! Emory offers tools and resources to help you succeed in achieving your goals:

• Take the RealAge Assessment on Healthy Emory Connect to discover your biological age and identify areas for improvement - and earn an incentive or reward.
• Connect with Well-being Champions for encouragement and accountability during your SMART Goal journey.
• Visit the SMART goal web page for step-by-step guidance and practical tips.
• Leverage other resources to help you meet your goals.

Your journey starts now. One goal can change everything. Visit Healthy Emory to set your SMART goal and join the movement.